2026 data Maine board official source

Maine Licensed Professional Counselor License Requirements

Official regulator records behind the requirements, fees, and renewal cycle for this license.

Provides mental health counseling and therapy services.

What the Maine data shows for Licensed Professional Counselors

Maine sets the entry bar for licensed professional counselors at 2,527 training hours and a passing score on NCE (National Counselor Exam) or NCMHCE, with 2 years of supervised work experience expected. A background check is a standard part of the process, and applicants must be 18 or older. The credential is administered under Maine's licensing regime, which classifies the training track as "Masters Degree in Counseling".

The initial price tag is $65, and renewal costs $64 every 2 years. The license also carries an ongoing 30-hour continuing-education requirement per 2-year cycle that adds to the true cost of staying licensed.

On reciprocity, licensed professional counselors should know: Counseling Compact: 40+ states.

Licensing Requirements in Maine

Education / Training Hours
Masters Degree in Counseling
2,527 hours
Exam Requirement
NCE (National Counselor Exam) or NCMHCE
Required
Initial License Fee
$65
Renewal Fee
$64
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
30 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years
Work Experience Required
2 years
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Maine licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Licensed Professional Counselor in Maine?
In Maine, the license path calls for 2527 education/training hours, a passing score on NCE (National Counselor Exam) or NCMHCE, and a $65 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as a Licensed Professional Counselor in Maine?
To become a licensed licensed professional counselor in Maine, you must meet the state's requirements including 2527 hours of education and 2 years of work experience. You must also pass the required examination. Contact the Maine licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my Licensed Professional Counselor license to Maine from another state?
Reciprocity for licensed professional counselors nationally works like this: Counseling Compact: 40+ states. Beyond that baseline, interstate compacts exist for many professions and may smooth a transfer into Maine. Verify the specifics with the Maine licensing board.
Does Maine require a background check for Licensed Professional Counselor licensing?
Background screening is part of the licensed professional counselor licensing process in Maine. The state licensing board determines which offenses disqualify an applicant and how appeals are handled.
What are the continuing education requirements for Licensed Professional Counselor in Maine?
To stay licensed as a licensed professional counselor in Maine, plan on 30 hours of continuing education per 2-year renewal cycle; renewal itself runs $64.

Source: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites